If you’re looking for a bright, fresh dressing to uplift any salad or grilled dish, this Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of freshly picked basil and zesty lemon, this vinaigrette strikes the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and herbaceous notes, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen. Easy to whip up in just a few minutes, it adds a refreshing splash of sunshine to everything from leafy greens to roasted veggies or even seafood. Trust me, once you master this simple yet flavorful vinaigrette, it will quickly become your go-to dressing for an effortless burst of homemade goodness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to perfecting this Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s adding brightness, sweetness, or that gorgeous herbaceous aroma that basil brings to the table.
- Fresh basil leaves (1 cup loosely packed): The star herb that imparts a sweet, peppery freshness essential to this dressing’s signature flavor.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Provides a zesty acidity that wakes up your taste buds and blends beautifully with the basil.
- White wine vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds mild tang and depth without overpowering the delicate lemon and basil notes.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity with a gentle, natural sweetness for a perfectly rounded vinaigrette.
- Garlic clove (1, finely minced): Infuses a subtle savory punch that adds complexity without being too bold.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the lemon flavor and lends a fragrant citrus aroma.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and ties the ingredients together harmoniously.
- Olive oil (½ cup): Creates a luscious, velvety texture and smooth finish that coats your salad beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Basil and Base Flavors
Start by adding the fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, honey, finely minced garlic, lemon zest, and salt into a food processor. Pulse about 20 times until the basil is finely chopped and the mixture starts to blend into a cohesive base. This step ensures the herbs and flavors meld together, creating that irresistible fresh essence that defines the dressing.
Step 2: Emulsify with Olive Oil
Next, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to blend the mixture. This gradual process helps the oil emulsify properly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth, creamy vinaigrette. Once fully combined and silky in texture, your Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe is ready to brighten up any dish or salad.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your vinaigrette with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a twist of lemon peel right before serving. These simple garnishes elevate presentation while boosting fresh aroma, perfect when serving guests or making a meal feel special.
Side Dishes
This vinaigrette pairs exceptionally well with crisp mixed greens, grilled vegetables, or marinated chicken. It’s also fantastic drizzled over a quinoa salad or steamed asparagus, bringing a zesty lift that balances richer, heavier sides.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, try using this Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe as a marinade for shrimp or a finishing sauce over grilled fish. You can even turn it into a dipping sauce for crusty bread by mixing in a little extra olive oil and a pinch of chili flakes for warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 to 4 days. Give it a good shake or stir before each use, as some separation may naturally occur.
Freezing
Freezing this vinaigrette is not recommended because the fresh basil and olive oil may separate and lose their vibrant texture once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Reheating
Since this is a cold dressing designed to be served fresh, there is no need to reheat it. Just bring it to room temperature for a few minutes if it’s chilled too long, then stir to recombine before serving.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in this Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe?
Fresh basil is really the secret to the bright and vibrant flavors in this vinaigrette. Dried basil doesn’t release the same fresh oils and can make your dressing taste flat, so it’s best to stick with fresh leaves here.
Is this vinaigrette suitable for salads other than green salads?
Absolutely! This Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe works wonderfully on grain salads, roasted vegetable salads, and even as a marinade or drizzle for seafood and grilled dishes. Its versatility is one of the reasons it’s so beloved.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet vinaigrette, reduce the honey slightly or omit it altogether. The lemon juice and vinegar will keep it pleasantly tangy, so it still tastes fresh and flavorful.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely mince the basil and garlic by hand and whisk the ingredients together vigorously. It will take a bit more elbow grease, but the results will still be delicious and fresh.
How can I make this vinaigrette more creamy?
If you want a creamier texture, try adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a little Greek yogurt when blending. This adds body and richness while keeping the lemon basil flavors front and center.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those magical kitchen helpers that brings a bright, fresh, and vibrant touch to so many dishes. It’s quick to make and uses pantry staples with a splash of fresh herbs that completely transform your meals. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing it as I do — your taste buds will thank you for this little jar of liquid sunshine!
Print
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6.6 servings
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fresh and zesty Lemon Basil Vinaigrette that combines bright lemon juice, aromatic basil, and a hint of honey for sweetness. Perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade.
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Pulse the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, honey, garlic, lemon zest, and salt. Pulse 20 times until the basil is finely chopped and the ingredients are well mixed.
- Blend in Olive Oil: Slowly add the olive oil while blending until the vinaigrette becomes smooth and thoroughly combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh basil leaves.
- Adjust honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and shake before use as ingredients may separate.
- This vinaigrette pairs excellently with mixed greens or as a marinade for chicken or fish.
